Unofficialbmw.com

[Miekol]

My 323i 1999 overheated yesterday. I guess the thermostat is stuffed because I removed the radiator CAP, very carefully, and found the water in the top of the radiator was only warm. I stuck my finger in it

Can anyone tell me where the thermostat is located on the engine and where the water pump is located? I may as well change the pump at the same time.

Is there a fault code that would have indicated the thermostat was about to die?

Michael
Gold Coast Australia

[edjack]

Follow the upper rad hose to the engine. The t'stat housing will be obvious.

Not sure if your model has an electrically-controlled t'stat. If not, no trouble code.

Buy a Bentleys' manual: http://www.bentleypublishers.com/product.htm?code=be46
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Ed BMW CCA member since 1987 (Nr. 62319).
'97 540i 6 speed Aspensilber over Aubergine interior.

[Miekol]

Thanks for your helpful advice Ed BMW. Its turned out that its not the thermostat, the coolant reservoir attached to the side of the radiator has a 'split' in it and is leaking. I thought it a simple matter of replacing it but its not that simple. I have removed all the clips and hoses I can see and tugged at it but it wont budge. I don't want to apply too much force in case I damage the radiator. Is there something I've missed? Is there a trick to removing it?

PS I did try sending you an email to thank you for your original advice but it got bumped by your earthlink spam blocker.

Michael Australia

[edjack]

My E39 expansion tank is dislodged by a sharp whack on the bottom. Perhaps your is, too.
_________________


Ed BMW CCA member since 1987 (Nr. 62319).
'97 540i 6 speed Aspensilber over Aubergine interior.